Product description
Magnolia x brooklynensis 'Yellow Bird' gets its name from the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens where it was first introduced. It offers a lovely creamy yellow flower that has a large cup shape. The flowers appear in early spring when the tree is leafless, showing off to perfection against the bare branches. Green leaves appear later in spring and create a lovely backdrop through the summer. The foliage fades to yellowy brown in autumn before falling in winter.
Also known as a Yellow Lily tree, 'Yellow Bird’ will reach heights of around 6m with a spread of 3m in a 20 year period. It grows with a conical shape. Plant your tree in full sun or partial shade. It does prefer a sheltered position if possible.
Magnolia 'Yellow Bird' is fully hardy and can withstand frost to below -20 °C, making a great option for gardens in colder regions. Magnolia 'Yellow Bird' appreciates consistent moisture throughout the year. Avoid very dry or very wet soil.
This hybrid Magnolia has a great architectural open tree structure and will be a wonderful statement tree for a medium sized garden. It delights the eye with a burst of yellow and will look stunning next to a Magnolia Heaven Scent, which contrasts in shades of pale and deep pink.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in early spring to promote healthy growth and enhance flowering. Avoid heavy pruning, as Magnolias flower on old wood; instead, remove dead or damaged branches after flowering to maintain shape. Protect the shallow roots by avoiding cultivation around the base and topping up the mulch annually. This will conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and keep your Magnolia thriving year-round.
How to Water
Water Magnolia deeply after planting, ensuring the root zone is thoroughly soaked. During the first growing season, water regularly to help establish the roots, particularly during dry spells. Once established, Magnolia trees are moderately drought-tolerant but will benefit from additional watering during prolonged dry periods. Always water at the base and avoid wetting the leaves, as this can encourage fungal problems. Using rainwater is ideal, as it helps maintain the slightly acidic soil conditions preferred by Magnolias.
How to Plant
To plant Magnolia, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Prepare a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the root collar is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently with a mixture of soil and organic compost, firming the soil around the roots. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Mulch the base with organic matter like bark chips, ensuring the mulch is kept away from the trunk to prevent rot.